It was a memorable event no matter which tenor is your personal favorite. However, I, too was disappointed in the section of Andrea Chenier which Domingo chose to present and in the lackluster way in which he performed it.

Turandot is always a big crowd pleaser and 'Nessun Dorma' is one of Pavarotti's signature pieces, so he received a nice round of applause for this. Overall, His voice was inconsistent, occasionally drowned out by the orchestra or his leading lady. His unexpected fall caused gasps from the audience, but pro that he is, he recovered and went on as if nothing happened.

Now for the best part of the evening which was the middle portion....

The final act of Carmen was outstanding. Zeffirelli's bustling set received a round of applause all by itself as the curtain opened. Once the crowd on stage dispersed and Jose entered and approached Carmen, the incredible applause which welcomed him came almost as a surprise to him. The look on his face was a mix of emotion, astonishment, and effort to keep in character. He continued, flawlessly - great voice, great emotion, great acting. The role of Don Jose "belongs" to him. The standing ovation, cheers and flowers when he finished were more than well deserved. The grin of joy, elation (and maybe even relief) on his face during the curtain calls said it all. It was a privilege to be able to see Jose on stage at the Met! Judging by audience reaction and my own feelings, he was the hit of the Millenium Gala. What a treat it would be if he'd do a complete opera again at the Met.